Pennridge HS students chalk up the sidewalks

By Kimberly FlandersStaff Writer

Friday

Apr 26, 2013 at 12:01 AMApr 26, 2013 at 5:30 AM

The sidewalk outside Pennridge High School was transformed into artists’ canvasses Thursday.

Drawings of sea creatures, cats having a birthday party and a house being carried away by a bundle of balloons were vibrant in the afternoon sun, and the student artists responsible created everything using nothing but their own talents and chalk.

The inaugural “Sidewalk Chalk Day” was an idea created by students and an opportunity for teenage artists at the high school to show off their abilities and express themselves.

“This is the first time we’ve done this event at Pennridge, and this is a great way to showcase and highlight the arts here,” said Nick Kalams, a 15-year-old Pennridge student and member of the student council.

Nick said almost 100 students participated in the event, which translates to the same amount of sidewalk blocks becoming electrified with color and art outside the school.

“If they wanted to come outside and draw a piece of art, they just had to fill out a small form, draw a sketch and have it approved,” Kalams said of the process.

“The sports get a lot of recognition at our school, art is really left out. This looks really successful and will get the word out that the arts in Pennridge are widely supported and amazing.”

Pennridge High School Principal Dr. Thomas Creeden agreed that the art program at the school is vibrant and growing.

“(The students) enjoy this and they enjoy being creative. Our whole arts program, including music, is a very growing program across the district. Things like this, where the student council can promote getting the kids active, I always try to support,” Creeden said.

More than two hours were allotted in the middle of the school day for students to partake in the event, and as those hours passed, a magnificent sea creature drawing came to life at the hands of 18-year-old senior Ari Kendra.

“I’m actually missing art class to do this, but it’s really nice in senior year; everyone is tired and sick of being inside,” said Kendra, who noted she will be attending Arcadia University to study art therapy or another major involving art.

“This day is definitely worth it. Pennridge students really care about the art program going on here.”

Some teachers in the school, including finance and accounting teacher Chris Dyer, walked around to observe the art and admire an expressive side to students they never saw before.

“We’re seeing their artistic ability come through; as a teacher in accounting, I don’t get to see this type of expression at all,” Dyer said.

He noted that a spring concert for the high school’s choir was also taking place Thursday night, and that would be an “opportunity for community members to see the talent of the students also.”

Both Nick and Dyer said they hope to see this event happen every year.

“This day just gets them out to work as a school, it helps school spirit, shows creativity, and all those are a plus for our kids. It really makes a positive atmosphere in the school,” Creeden said.